Study Questions: M.A. Exam in Ethics—Summer 2008
1. In the Groundwork and in the Critique of Practical Reason, Kant argues against moral theories that
he calls “heteronomous.” What makes a moral theory heteronomous, according to Kant? Why does he
think that no such theory can be valid? Do you find Kant’s reasoning here compelling?
2. Virtue theorists claim that their theories give a more adequate account of our moral commitments
than do theories based on principles. Evaluate this claim and explain what is at stake in the
controversy between virtue theorists and proponents of theories based on moral principles.
3. What, if anything, is wrong with the idea that some people’s desires are not in their own best
interest and, thus, should not be taken into account in our moral deliberation? Discuss one moral
theory that endorses paternalism and another that rejects it.
4. Kant asserts that autonomy of the will is the supreme principle of morality. Explain why he
thinks that an autonomous agent is bound by the moral law and critically evaluate his argument.
5. Can moral rights or principles of justice be defended strictly on utilitarian grounds? How might the
importance of rights and justice be weighed against the maximization of happiness overall?
6. Describe the position known in contemporary ethical theory as “particularism.” What do you take
to be the best argument for it? What might be its main weaknesses?
7. What role, if any, should blame and praise play in moral life and moral philosophy? Discuss with
reference to at least two philosophers.
8. What role is played in McDowell’s moral philosophy by the notion of a moral (or ethical) outlook
(or point of view)? What philosophical position or set of concerns is this notion meant to respond to?
Do you find his appeal to this notion compelling?
9. Hume offers an argument that is meant to show that “the ultimate ends of human actions can never,
in any case, be accounted for by reason.” Interpret Hume’s claim and his argument in its support. Is
Hume right?
10. What is Nietzsche’s critique of morality? How compelling is it? Discuss with reference to at least
one contemporary philosopher.
11. The position known in contemporary ethical theory as “situationism” constitutes a particular
critique of virtue ethics. What is this critique? How might virtue ethicists respond to it? What could
be the significance to moral philosophy of appeals to empirical findings of the sort presented by the
situationist?
12. Explain the distinction between agent-relative and agent-neutral reasons. Should agent-relative
reasons play any role in moral reasoning? Discuss with respect to at least two philosophers.